How to Tell If a Surge Protector Outlet is Broken

We all use surge protectors. You most likely have the computer you are using right now plugged into one. When was the last time you checked yours to make sure it is working correctly? Surge protectors cannot protect you if they are faulty or have become damaged in some way. Test yours on a regular basis; it is easy and can save lives from house fires and accidents.

Step One:
Check the home outlet plug this protector will be using with a power tester, they are inexpensive and available at most home improvement centers. Most power testers have simple light systems that come on when everything is working or stay off if they are not. I like to use the ones that have a green light that comes on when all is good.

Step Two:
Check one protector and location at a time. Start with unplugging all the equipment for each specific protector. Check the surge protector for cracks or other damage. Look at the outlets do they have cracked areas or any burnt spots?

Step Three:
Check to be sure your surge protector is plugged into the wall socket. If your surge protector has a red light that comes on when it is receiving power, check to be sure that light is on. Check to see if the switch on the protector is working correctly. If the surge protector can not pass these first tests it is more than likely faulty and should be replaced. If it has passed go on to the next step.

Step Four:
Insert your power tester into the first outlet. Do the lights come on as they should? Do they go off when you flip the switch on the protector? Do they come back on when you flip the switch back on? If all these steps pass go to the next step.

Step Five:
Repeat steps three and four for each outlet socket on the surge protector.
If the outlet does not test positive for power it is more than likely damaged. The best advice is to no longer use that surge protector and throw it away.

Using improperly working surge protectors can both damage the electrical equipment you have plugged into them as well as increase the risk of house fires. They should be checked on a regular schedule – as you do your smoke detectors when you change the clocks twice a year.